N.D. governor questions coal pollution limits

BISMARCK, N.D., April 17 (UPI) -- North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple said a "one-size-fits-all" effort to reduce carbon dioxide emissions isn't the right tool to control pollution.

Dalrymple hosted officials from major energy-producing states to discuss plans by the Environmental Protection Agency to cut emissions from coal-fired power plants. The Republican governor said any new rules should be practical and based on commercially-viable technology, adding his state was one of a few already meeting EPA air-quality standards.

"A one-size-fits-all approach to emissions reduction is not the answer," Dalrymple said in a statement Wednesday. "Imposing unattainable standards would only serve to undermine the nation’s security and could lead to higher utility rates for customers and lost jobs."

The EPA is proposing legislation that would cap emissions on existing coal-fired power plants and set limits on any new coal plants. The measure is part of a climate action plan unveiled by President Obama in 2012. New rules could go into force next year.

Dalrymple said coal-producing states should work together to find a sensible balance between U.S. energy demands and the need to protect the environment.